ASEAN News

Indonesia’s Defense Minister and president-elect, Prabowo Subianto, set out on a noteworthy political trip with his visit to Beijing, China. This visit holds monstrous significance for respective relations between Indonesia and China but moreover for the broader geopolitical scene of Southeast Asia. As Prabowo plans for his upcoming inauguration in October, his engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping underscores the …

A health crisis has unfolded in Japan, where cholesterol-lowering supplements have led to devastating consequences. These supplements, containing an ingredient called red yeast rice or “beni kōji,” were marketed as effective in lowering cholesterol levels. However, the situation has taken a tragic turn, resulting in fatalities and hospitalizations.  Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co.: The Center of Attention Awareness Gap: Osaka-based Kobayashi Pharmaceutical …

The Oscar-winning film “Oppenheimer,” directed by Christopher Nolan, has finally premiered in Japan after more than eight months since its global debut in 2023. However, the film’s release in the only country ever attacked with nuclear weapons has been met with mixed reactions and high emotions. A Sensitive Subject Matter Historical Context: Japan, the nation that experienced the devastating bombings …

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has embarked on a visionary journey to accelerate green energy adoption in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Through strategic investments and sustainable initiatives, the UAE aims to reshape the region’s energy landscape. Let’s explore the key drivers behind this bold push. UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability In line with its commitment to sustainability, six …

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has issued an urgent recall for two Japanese sake products, Mio Sparkling Sake Premium (Rose) in both 750 ml and 300 ml bottles, due to potential health risks. This recall comes as a precautionary measure following reports of kidney health issues linked to the products. The Health Risk Concerns The recalled sake products contain red …

South Korea’s love affair with wet wipes is symptomatic of a global dependency on single-use products. These handy wipes have become ubiquitous in households, restaurants, and even in personal care routines. But this convenience has a hidden cost that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. The nation’s landfills and waterways are bearing the brunt of this throwaway culture, with wet …

The United Arab Emirates has been making significant strides in establishing itself as a key investor in Sub-Saharan Africa. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify its economy and extend its global influence. The UAE’s investments are carefully targeted to sectors where they can have the most impact, such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and logistics. Infrastructure Development: …

Upskirting, the act of taking unauthorized photographs under a person’s skirt, has emerged as a disturbing violation of privacy and a form of sexual harassment. In Japan, this issue has been particularly prevalent among cheerleaders, who are often in the public eye and perform in outfits that can make them targets for such invasive behavior. The impact of upskirting on …

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on a transformative journey to become a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence (AI). This ambitious mission is not just about technological advancement but also about positioning the nation as a visionary leader in the AI landscape. The Falcon AI Model: A Beacon of Open-Source Innovation At the heart of the UAE’s AI revolution is …

In a move that has sent ripples through the global beauty industry, Sephora, the largest makeup retailer, has announced its withdrawal from South Korea. This decision marks a significant shift in the company’s strategy and raises questions about the challenges international brands face in the competitive K-beauty market. The Dominance of CJ Olive Young At the core of Sephora’s retreat …